The Detroit Lions clinched the NFC North with a win over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, the first time in 30 years that the Lions have won their division. It also marks an incredible turnaround from just two years ago, when the Lions went 3-13-1 in quarterback Jared Goff’s first year with the team.
Goff has earned a lot of respect with his success in Detroit, including from rival quarterbacks. After Detroit’s victory, Minnesota quarterback Kirk Cousins complimented Goff for his journey to this moment.
“Hey Jared, congrats man. Happy for you, great job,” Cousins told Goff. “Way to bounce back from 0-8 a couple of years ago to where you are now. It’s incredible, a lot of grit.”
The Lions quarterback responded in turn, praising Cousins for his grace after a season-ending Achilles injury.
“The way you responded to the injury, I don’t know if I really told you, but the way you spoke after the injury, inspirational,” Goff said.
.@JaredGoff16 and @KirkCousins8 shared an awesome moment after yesterday's game.
— NFL (@NFL) December 25, 2023
True sportsmanship. 💯 (via @NFLFilms) pic.twitter.com/46uOxewfyB
NFL fans were especially impressed with Cousins, who’s enduring such a disappointing season after winning the NFC North last year.
I don't agree with everything Kirk Cousins is , but he conducts himself with class , a truly nice man ! https://t.co/pIwQKw6n1Z
— Alan MacVean (@ScottishCaveman) December 25, 2023
This is what sportsmanship looks like!! Shout out to @KirkCousins8 for being a great example!! https://t.co/laAG9yiB0U
— Gilbert Manuell (@Gilbaby1) December 25, 2023
I honestly love Kirk cousins so much such a sweetheart and family man https://t.co/Xh9GlhwOnS
— Allison (@hornyfranta) December 25, 2023
Great to see mutual respect on the field! 🤝🏈
— Roberto Robles 😺 🚀 (@robertodigital_) December 25, 2023
Proving NFL quarterbacks have a softer side, turning touchdowns into touchdown-worthy bromance! 🏈🤝😄
— ZAQ RIDER (@zaqrider) December 25, 2023
Kirk Cousins is one of the classiest humblest and nicest people in the NFL and in public life in general. Seems Jared is same. I have been rooting for him since LA disrespected him
— JBA Jews R where extreme left & right meet 2 hate (@AdlerJoelle) December 25, 2023
Cousins is just a good dude
— Steve Jr (@SJMjr_6490) December 25, 2023
No flare
No fuss
Good dude
He's carrying the old lady's groceries to the car for her type good
Cousins has been in the league for over a decade, so he understands the ups and downs of a quarterback’s life. That knowledge was on display again in his conversation with Goff.
